So you‘re looking to buy a top-of-the-line drone that can capture stunning aerial footage and photos. As you research options, you‘ll quickly discover two models that stand out from the crowd – the DJI Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 3.
But you might be wondering, which of these cutting-edge drones is right one for you?
I‘ve tested and compared both models head-to-head across a number key factors. In this guide, I’ll overview 7 major differences between the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 3 to help you decide which advanced DJI drone best fits your needs and budget.
Let’s take a closer look!
DJI Drone Technology
First, a quick introduction to DJI’s industry-leading consumer drone technology. The company dominates the market, accounting for over 70% of drone sales globally. They‘ve lead the way in developing easy-to-fly drones with built-in cameras for capturing aerial photos and video.
DJI’s secret sauce is it’s OcuSync transmission technology. This enables streaming a real-time view from the drone camera to the controller screen with very low latency. This makes piloting much easier compared flying many drones where you can’t see what you’re recording.
The Mavic series represents DJI’s high-end consumer drone line packing the latest features into a portable form factor. The Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 3 represent the two newest generation flagship models.
Mavic 2 Pro vs. Mavic 3 Overview
The DJI Mavic 2 Pro debuted in 2018 as the top-of-the-line consumer drone offering class-leading video resolution and camera capabilities along with enhanced safety features and flight time.
In late 2021, DJI released the much-anticipated Mavic 3 as the next generation follow up to the Mavic 2 boasting upgraded video modes, extended transmission range, longer flight times, and improved obstacle avoidance.
While the Mavic 3 outperforms its predecessor across most areas, the Mavic 2 Pro still remains an impressive drone in its own right – especially considering it sells for $1,000+ less.
To help you determine the right option, let‘s explore the 7 biggest differences between these two awesome drones.
Price
First up, there‘s a pretty significant difference in terms of pricing between models:
| Drone | Launch Price |
|---|---|
| Mavic 2 Pro | $1,599 |
| Mavic 3 (Standard) | $2,199 |
| Mavic 3 (Fly More) | $2,999 |
| Mavic 3 (Cine) | $4,999 |
As you can see, the Mavic 3 retails for $600+ more compared to the $1,599 Mavic 2 Pro – a nearly 40% price hike. And the video-focused Cine version aimed at professional cinematographers costs over 3x more!
So if you‘re budget conscious or don‘t need the absolute best specs, the Mavic 2 Pro provides fantastic value at a more affordable cost.
Sensors & Lenses
Another major difference is the camera gear…
The Mavic 3 packs a significantly larger 4/3" CMOS sensor compared to the 1-inch sensor found in the Mavic 2 Pro.
Why does this matter?
In simple terms, larger sensors can capture more visual information with less noise and better low light sensitivity – similar to upgrading from a smartphone to DSLR camera.
So footage from the Mavic 3 exhibits richer colors, better dynamic range, finer details, and superior image quality overall.
Plus the Hasselblad prime lens on the Mavic 3 offers:
- Adjustable aperture from f/2.8 to f/11 for more exposure control
- 84° field of view delivers a wider perspective
It also has a handy secondary tele lens for hybrid zooming.
While the Mavic 2 Pro sensor and lens produces pleasing 4K video and 20MP photos, the Mavic 3 takes image quality to the next level.
Video Resolution & Frame Rate
Both drones shoot outstanding 4K ultra high definition footage. But the Mavic 3 pulls way ahead for cinematographers needing higher video resolutions and smoother slow motion effects.
Check out max video modes:
| Model | Max Resolution | Max Frame Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mavic 2 Pro | 4K UHD | 30fps |
| Mavic 3 | 5.1K | 50fps |
The advanced Mavic 3 blows past its predecessor reaching 5.1K resolution at an ultra smooth 50 frames per second – crucial advantages for filming fast action shots without jitter or blur.
It also shoots 4K at a buttery 120fps for super satisfying slow motion playback. This gives creative pros much more flexibility in post-production.
Bottom line – the Mavic 3 offers superior options for professional-grade video.
Flight Time
I know you‘ll be eager stay up hovering as long you can to frame epic shots. So maximizing flight time is critical.
Thankfully, both the Mavic 2 Pro and 3 will give you ample air time before needing to swap batteries:
| Drone | Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Mavic 2 Pro | 31 minutes |
| Mavic 3 | 46 minutes |
However, the Mavic 3‘s more efficient motors and smarter power management extends flight time by a whopping 15 extra minutes – allowing you to capture longer uninterrupted takes by spending less time on battery swaps.
Transmission System
A drone‘s wireless transmission technology determines connectivity with the controller. Both models use DJI‘s OcuSync system to stream real-time drone camera feeds with minimal lag.
But Mavic 3’s upgraded O3 system pushes the limits much further:
| Model | Transmission Tech | Range | Live View |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mavic 2 Pro | OcuSync 2.0 | 8-10km | 1080p @ 30fps |
| Mavic 3 | OcuSync 3.0 | 15km | 1080p @ 60fps |
- Range listed for FCC compliant mode used in North America
You‘ll enjoy 2x the max transmission distance for venturing farther without losing connection. And smoother 60fps live view feedback helps tracking moving subjects.
This expanded wireless performance opens up a wider world of creative possibilities.
Safety & Navigation
While both models offer excellent safety capabilities, the Mavic 3 provides the latest and greatest collision detection and navigation intelligence.
It uses DJI‘s newest ActiveTrack 5.0 system enhanced by six fish-eye vision sensors for omnidirectional obstacle avoidance – giving you greater confidence when flying in tighter spaces.
The Advanced Return-to-Home function has also been improved ensuring more reliable automated flight back if you lose connection.
For newcomers, the Mavic 3‘s cutting-edge aviation tech makes achieving epic footage simpler and safer right out of the box.
But either way, both are extremely capable fliers that handle wonderfully.
Which Is the Best Choice?
So when considering the DJI Mavic 2 Pro vs the Mavic 3, which model is the right choice?
For those wanting the absolute ultimate drone, I recommend the Mavic 3 if budget allows.
Compared to the Mavic 2 Pro, key advantages include:
- Significantly enhanced image quality from larger camera sensor
- Faster top speed and maneuverability
- Adds 15 minutes longer max runtime per battery charge
- Double the 1080p live view transmission distance
- Shoots 5.1K & 4K 120fps high resolution video
- More intelligent and nimble flight capabilities
Professional aerial photographers, videographers, and well-funded hobbyists will appreciate the Mavic 3’s cutting-edge capture and safety upgrades.
However, the Mavic 2 Pro remains a formidable drone in many respects while costing hundreds less.
Despite lagging behind its successor with certain specs, key strengths still include:
- Streams smooth 4K 30fps ultra HD footage
- Shoots vibrant 20 megapixel photographs
- Compact and portable folding design
- Intelligent flight modes and tracking
- Up to 31 minutes runtime per battery
- Advanced safety systems
For aerial photography enthusiasts and videographers not requiring 5.1K video, the Mavic 2 Pro retains plenty of performance at a more affordable price point.
Either way, both the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 3 represent phenomenal flying 4K camera platforms ready to capture stunning perspectives from the sky!
Let me know if you have any other questions comparing these awesome drones!
